94 Accord Ex
Auto trans.
160,000
V-tec, 4 cyl.


Hello, just got this Honda Accord. It doesn't look well maintained since second owner (woman driver, put gas in and not much more). Just put in new plugs, air filter, fuel filter, PCV, coolant, oil & filter, rad fuse. Car was hit in front once and passenger door - nothing major though, mostly cosmetic. The worst part is that it needs a radiator support bracket. Engine sounds good and even and smooth. Compression is 180-200 (carboned up a bit - air filter was in too long). Idles nice and even. But the dash has a D4 flashing (have a spooky feeling this is not a good sign - hope it is not too bad, well I guess I'll find out soon enough).

I have not tried to drive or move this car yet, as I was busy doing a utility repair to body first.

So, what does the D4 mean and what would you guys do. I was looking at the Haynes manual, and it tells me to check the shift position console switch; the shift control cable; the throttle control cable; the interlock systems (key & shift). But my Haynes manual is driving me nuts with jumping all over the manual just to do these simple checks and adjustments. It says I must disarm the Airbag system, then remove the console, then the radio, then the lower instrument panel' the glove box; the this and that - whew just to do a few simple checks. Well, I don't have the Honda or Helms manual yet (and if this car is a junker I'm not sure I should invest in one, either). Any techs here I could work with on this one. Tel me where to start and I'll do my best.

Since it is flashing D4 I assume that in itself is a code of sorts?


DEXRON II ?

Can I use a 2.5 Qts of the Dexron II synthetic, like Valvoline after I drain the now dirty tranny fluid, or does it have to be standard non-synthetic. I have done these tranny flushes in other vehicles (Volvos) and the trannys seem to run cooler and have a longer life with the synthetic fluid. BUT being new to Honda, I am not assuming anything - I know too well, that assumptions cause problems.


Sincerely,
Diyer

 

Search for retrieving error codes. (I don't have a '94 so I don't know the details.) The flashing D4 is the transmission's version of the check-engine light. When you jumper the connector the engine light blinks a code while the D4 light flashes it's own code.

I've always heard Hondas work so much better with Honda's own ATF.

 

this flashing represents problems in/with the transmission. I had to replace the solenoids which was quite expensive---in my case the dealership had to do it, cause they sold it to me with it flashing and i made them repair it.

 

I'm fairly certain that the Honda fluid is a semi-synthetic Dexron III. Valvoline sells it. However, I don't know who makes it for Honda or if there are any other additives beyond what the Valvoline stuff is.

I found all the dealerships get preachy about this specific fluid thing. Usually the correct quality name brand is fine. As for Honda, though, I am staying with the Zmax and the PS fluid until I find out differently.

A quality API engine oil and a quality DOT 3 brake fluid, and a low silicate/boron coolant should be fine for those other systems. That entire coolant thing has more to do with the mineral water content in other countries than it has to do with all aluminum, etc. or corrosion protection. Lower silicate/boron formulas just extend the life. Costly if you drain the system for other reasons too often.


diyer